Astym: Getting to the Source of Pain

Most would agree that the use of “instruments” is not often thought of in relation to physical therapy. However, a group of clinicians at ATI are getting positive results with instruments when incorporating Astym into their patient’s physical therapy program.

Allison Flurkey, physical therapist at ATI’s West Indianapolis clinic explains Astym, why she recently became certified and what it entails. “I chose to become certified in Astym after observing one of my co-workers using this technique,” says Allison. “I saw first hand how her patients quickly improved, and decided that it would be an amazing skill I could incorporate into my treatments.”

What is Astym?

Astym is a scientifically-based, non-invasive treatment that is designed to regenerate healthy soft tissues, such as muscles, ligaments and tendons. This therapeutic treatment targets thickened soft tissue, scar tissue and degeneration that may develop due to overuse, trauma or surgery. The ultimate goal is to restore movement and reduce pain by getting to the source of the problem rather than simply relieving symptoms.

How is Astym performed?

An Astym-certified clinician will glide special plastic instruments over the skin and muscles in the affected area. The use of these special instruments allow the clinician to contact, assess, and treat soft tissue fibrosis in a way their hands cannot; allowing a deeper assessment of the soft tissue layers with less wear and tear on their hands.

What can be treated with Astym?

Success with Astym treatment ranges from sprains and strains to plantar fasciitis and post-operative scarring. Below are some more common diagnoses that have documented success:

Lateral epicondylitis “tennis elbow”

Achilles tendinitis

IT band syndrome

Soft tissue changes associated with osteoarthritis and surgery

Patellar tendinitis

Low back Pain

Is Astym part of an overall Physical Therapy program?

Yes, Astym is a treatment that is part of a comprehensive physical therapy program. As with all treatments at ATI Physical Therapy, an individualized program unique to your needs will be created, and will include other manual treatments, exercises and modalities. Allison notes that one of the unique characteristics about this technique is that patients are encouraged to continue exercising and performing their regular job duties so that their tissues can adapt to the demands of their job, sports, and activities of daily living.